By Fitri Hazim Hazam
PETALING JAYA, Jan 25 — The Petaling Jaya City Council (MBPJ) has become the first local authority in Selangor to join the Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities (GNAFCC) initiative by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Its Mayor Mohamad Zahri Samingon described the city’s participation in GNAFCC as a proactive step toward establishing an aging-friendly state while prioritising the well-being of its senior citizens.
“GNAFCC was established by the WHO in 2010 to unite communities and organisations worldwide with the vision of making their cities ideal places for aging.
“It also strengthens Petaling Jaya’s position as a forward-thinking city in strategising to preserve the well-being of senior citizens,” he told reporters yesterday.
Earlier, Zahri officially received the GNAFCC participation certificate from Malaysia WHO representative Dr Rabindra Abeyasinghe at MBPJ’s headquarters.
Zahri said the council will conduct a baseline assessment to examine the demographics and growth rate of senior citizens in terms of health and well-being.
“The assessment will evaluate existing access to housing, healthcare services, public facilities, and other support programmes needed by this vulnerable group,” he said.
Meanwhile, Dr Rabindra said WHO will assist MBPJ in enhancing the quality of services and infrastructure for senior citizens in Petaling Jaya.
“MBPJ is the first local council in Selangor, and Petaling Jaya is the sixth city to join GNAFCC.
“We warmly welcome MBPJ’s participation and will share expertise to achieve the vision of an age-friendly city,” he explained.
